Wife Fights for Pension After Husband Leaves It to Girlfriend

.A widow is locked in a legal battle after discovering that her late husband removed her from his R783,000 pension fund naming his girlfriend as the beneficiary instead.

Mmaseeiso Patricia Ramakatsa and Thokozani Ngema were husband and wife, sharing a home from 2014 to 2015. Now, she finds herself in a fierce legal fight over his pension, uncovering shocking revelations along the way.

Thokozani Ngema worked at Eskom from March 2003 until his passing in April 2023. Following his death, a hefty R783,564 death benefit was up for grabs—but who would receive it sparked a fierce dispute.

Ngema divided his fortune among his six children and even set aside 8% for his girlfriend. His estranged wife, however, was completely cut out left with nothing.

Refusing to be left with nothing, Ramakatsa took her battle to the Pension Fund Adjudicator (PFA). She argued that their customary marriage, dating back to 2008, made her the legal surviving spouse—and entitled to a share of the funds.

Despite her efforts, the Pension Fund Adjudicator (PFA) sided with Eskom’s pension fund, ruling that the distribution honored the late husband’s wishes. Ramakatsa’s claim was ultimately dismissed, leaving her with nothing.

Hoping for a different outcome, Ramakatsa appealed to the Financial Services Tribunal (FST). However, the tribunal upheld a previous legal precedent, stating that simply being a legal dependent does not entitle one to a share of the death benefit.

The Financial Services Tribunal (FST) took into account that Ramakatsa and the deceased had been separated for over eight years before his passing. Meanwhile, the girlfriend proved she was more than just a partner she had built a life with him, contributed to their shared household, and was raising two of his children.

After reviewing the case, the Financial Services Tribunal (FST) found the pension distribution to be fair and justified. As a result, the wife’s appeal was dismissed, leaving her without a share of the funds.